What is the difference between car engine displacement with and without a 'T'?

[WestonFitz]

Without a 'T' refers to a naturally aspirated engine, while with a 'T' refers to a turbocharged engine. Below are the differences between car engine displacement with and without a 'T': 1. Different structures: Compared to a naturally aspirated engine, a turbocharged engine has an additional turbocharging device, which consists of a turbine housing and a supercharger. 3. Different characteristics: Naturally aspirated engines are far superior to turbocharged engines in terms of smooth power output and direct response; the biggest advantage of a turbocharged engine is that it can significantly increase the engine's power and torque without increasing the engine displacement. Turbocharged engines are not only more fuel-efficient but also reduce emissions of CO (carbon monoxide), CH (hydrocarbons), and PM (particulate matter), making them more environmentally friendly.

[DiJayla]

Simply put, cars with a 'T' after their displacement are equipped with turbochargers. This device acts like an air compressor, using exhaust gases from the engine to spin the turbine and force more air into the engine. With the same displacement, more air means more fuel can be burned, resulting in significantly stronger power. For example, a 1.5T car might feel more powerful than some naturally aspirated 2.0L cars without a turbo, especially during acceleration from a stop, where the push-back sensation is noticeably stronger. However, turbocharged engines are more complex in structure and may have slightly higher maintenance costs in the long run.

[McKeegan]

Having driven many cars, the driving experience between turbocharged (T) and naturally aspirated engines is quite different. Naturally aspirated engines are like moderates, with smooth power delivery from low to high RPMs, exceptionally linear. Turbocharged cars, on the other hand, have a more exciting character—light throttle input feels uneventful, but once the RPM hits a certain point (around 1800 RPM, for example), the turbo kicks in suddenly, and the power surges instantly. It can feel a bit abrupt in city traffic, but it's truly exhilarating for highway overtaking. If you love the thrill of acceleration, go for the turbo; if you prioritize smoothness, choose naturally aspirated.

[RosalieAnn]

It depends on how you use it. The biggest advantage of turbocharged (T) engines is fuel efficiency and power output, especially with the growing popularity of small-displacement turbo engines. For example, when driving at 100km/h, a 1.4T engine might save about 1 liter of fuel compared to a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine. However, in the long run, components like the turbocharger and intercooler may require more maintenance costs, and the risk of repairs increases slightly as the vehicle ages. Naturally aspirated engines are simpler, more reliable, and generally cheaper and easier to maintain. The choice really depends on your needs: if you want fuel efficiency and strong acceleration, go for a turbocharged engine; if you prefer reliability and lower costs, choose a naturally aspirated one.